These are without a doubt the 8 best Saturday brunches in town

There are two types of Saturday brunchers; first off, the ones who wake up refreshed after a good night’s sleep, who look forward to spending a couple of hours enjoying an eggs benedict and a croissant while catching up on some reading. NOTE: this list is not for you. (But watch this space; because we reckon the likes of Bench at the Pavilion and Ba at the the Fairmont are worthy of their own ‘chill’ Saturday brunch list.)

Then you have Saturday brunchers numero-deux; the ones who want the weekend to last just that little bit longer – maybe you’ve had a heavy Friday night, maybe you haven’t; one thing’s for sure, Sunday is looming and even the finest magician would be impressed at your cracking attempt at making it disappear.

From beach parties and massive Indian feeds to nibbles and cheeky sundowners; here’s our round-up of the top Saturday brunches going…

1. Blue Marlin Ibiza – Ghantoot Al Jazira Island Hotel

Unwind and get loose at this glamorous Ibiza import; a stylish beach club brunch is available on their open terrace or on their super-comfy beach beds. Feel like you’re lounging in the Med as you’re served up a fusion of Mediterranean and Oriental dishes along with Spanish Sangria and berry Mojitos, while the resident DJ keeps the tunes flowing all day – a couple of drinks in you might (nearly) convince yourself it’s only Friday. Luckily for you, the venue shuts at 11pm, just the right time for you to get some good shut-eye for the week ahead.

Saturdays 2pm-4pm

How much? AED 295 with house beverages

2. Sea Fu – Four Seasons at Jumeirah Beach

This idyllic beachside restaurant offers up the fun and vibrant recently launched ‘Party Blind Brunch’. Munch comes in the form of some seriously impressive Asian offerings; a mix of unique treats like the Akami Pizza with the usual but beautifully laid-out sushi platters. Cocktails and the traditional sake are the order of the day; the perfect tonic as the resident DJ slams out some funky beats.

Saturdays 1pm – 4pm

How much? AED 395 with sake’s cocktails & fizz

3. Patiala – Souk Al Bahar

This Bollywood inspired brunch has only recently opened it’s doors for Saturday brunchers and it’s a serious Indian feast. The contemporary restaurant guarantees flowing drinks and non-stop tunes while you indulge in fine Indian cuisine; everything from traditional Biryanis and curries to fresh seafood; each designed in a unique way by celebrity chef Kunal Kapur.

Saturdays 12pm – 4pm

How much? AED 350 with house beverages

4. Bidi Bondi – Palm Jumeirah

Not your typical swanky Palm Jumeirah beach bar; this is probably the closest you’ll get to an authentic Aussie beach bar in Dubai. Sit outside where you’ll buzz to the DJ’s tunes or snag a seat at one of long wooden tables indoors where you’ll no doubt make some new mates. The brunch deal gives you one meal and four drinks; try the Thai green curry or the classic fish and chips; you won’t go wrong with either.

P.S; No need to dress to impress – the Aussie beach bum look is more fitting here than the standard over-the-top Dubai uniform.

Fridays and Saturdays 1pm-7pm

How much? AED 150 for dinner and four drinks

5. Flooka – Eastern Mangroves Promenade, Abu Dhabi

This is a perfectly chilled brunch overlooking the mangroves (pretty tropical vegetation) in Abu Dhabi. The à la carte menu is a blend of Mediterranean seafood and Arabic dishes where the live paella cooking station is one of the highlights. This one starts off quiet enough, but expect a flock of regulars to arrive later in the evening to enjoy the live local tunes. If you take a little mini-break down to AD, this brunch is the perfect way to prolong it (although it does make coming home that little bit harder).

Saturdays 12.30pm – 5pm

How much? AED 315 with house beverages

Check out our review of the Novotel in Abu Dhabi here

6. Cielo Buena Vista Brunch – Dubai Creek Yacht Club

This is a vibrant brunch filled with colour, Cuban inspired music and of course some delicious fruity punch from Cielo’s pop-up brunch bar. The live band will put a spring into your step as guests enjoy the super tasty, authentic Latin street food. Expect traditional South American bites along the lines of tiraditos and empanadas (tasty stuffed pastries) mixed with a variety of fresh seafood dishes and an impressive BBQ station. Thirsty guests will guzzle on grape, hops and bubbles at an additional cost along with our favourite Cielo fruity punch.

Saturdays 1pm – 5pm

How much? AED 275 with house beverages

7. The Ivy – Jumeirah Emirates Towers

The rolling brunch at this upscale British brasserie is ideal for those who don’t like to set an alarm; the brunch officially starts at 12 midday and lasts three hours but you can arrive when you please and the package only begins once you’re seated. A relaxed affair where hearty, indulgent meals are the order of the day; a four course meal is on offer with the likes of traditional roast beef with all the trimmings or their famous chocolate crackle bomb dessert available.

Saturdays; Rolling brunch that begins at 12am

How much? AED 499 including cocktails and house beverages

8. Mint Leaf of London – DIFC

This hip Indian eatery offers up a brand spankin’ new six-course à la carte brunch menu. Drinks and food are served right to your table, (which means less walking…nice). The menu features grilled meats, traditional curries (the chicken tikka and buttery tomato sauce is pretty damn tasty) and a beautifully presented platter of desserts. With views of the Burj Khalifa, an extensive choice of cocktails and service that promises you glass will never be empty, this is where we reckon you should rest your legs this coming Saturday.

Saturdays 1pm – 4.30pm

How much? AED 320 with house beverages

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